At least 24 people have been killed as multiple wildfires continue to ravage South Korea's south-east region. Most of the victims are in their 60s and 70s, authorities say, adding that some 26 people are injured - with 12 in critical condition. More than 23,000 people have been forced to flee their homes.

A combination of an aging society and a reliance on temporary workers meant older people were disproportionately on the frontlines tackling South Korea's devastating wildfires this week - and paid a disproportionate price.

The most destructive wildfires ever to hit South Korea were almost contained, authorities announced Friday, after rain and cooler temperatures helped fire crew put out the blazes that have killed 28 people and razed vast swaths of land since last week.